The essential cellular energy coenzyme — administered via IV infusion for anti-aging, addiction recovery, and metabolic optimization.
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every living cell, essential for hundreds of metabolic reactions including energy production (ATP synthesis via mitochondria), DNA repair (through sirtuins and PARP enzymes), epigenetic regulation, circadian rhythm maintenance, and cellular signaling. NAD+ levels decline by approximately 50% between ages 40 and 60.
IV NAD+ infusions deliver the coenzyme directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the oral bioavailability limitations of oral supplements. IV NAD+ protocols originated in addiction medicine (Brian Mestayer and Springfield Wellness Center pioneered NAD+ for substance withdrawal) and have expanded into anti-aging and performance optimization.
While technically not a peptide, NAD+ is widely offered by peptide therapy clinics and compounding pharmacies, making it relevant to patients navigating the peptide therapy landscape. It is one of the most requested IV therapies in functional and anti-aging medicine.
Human studies demonstrate IV NAD+ effectively raises blood NAD+ levels acutely. Clinical observations in addiction medicine suggest NAD+ infusions reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings from alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines. Anti-aging studies show correlations between NAD+ levels and markers of biological aging.
David Sinclair's lab at Harvard has extensively published on NAD+ decline in aging and the benefits of NAD+ boosting in animal models (improved mitochondrial function, extended lifespan, improved metabolic health). Translation to human outcomes is ongoing with NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) showing modest but measurable benefits.
📚 Key Reference: PMID: 32231347 (NAD+ human study), PMID: 24786309 (Sinclair NAD+ aging)
IV NAD+ infusions can cause chest tightness, shortness of breath, nausea, cramping, and anxiety during infusion — usually managed by slowing infusion rate. Should be administered in clinical setting with monitoring. Oral NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) are generally well-tolerated. Cost is significant ($500-1500+ per IV session). Consult your provider.
NAD+ is available as IV infusion through clinics and compounding pharmacies. NMN regulatory status is evolving (FDA questioned supplement status in 2023). NR (nicotinamide riboside) is sold as dietary supplement. Not FDA-approved as a drug.